Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Typhoid fever is usually diagnosed with a blood culture.

Treatment

Typhoid fever is treated with antibiotics.

Typhoid fever spreads easily until it is treated. In a small number of cases, people may become typhoid carriers even after the illness has passed. People who are chronic carriers can shed the contagious bacteria in their stool or urine. This condition can be treated with antibiotics or, in unusual cases, surgery to remove the gall bladder.

Your doctor may also recommend medication to help reduce the fever. In general, rest and drink plenty of fluids.

Prevention

There are two main ways to prevent typhoid fever:

Careful food monitoring in areas where typhoid fever is prevalent:

Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least one minute. This includes ice.

Eat foods while they are still hot. Ensure that they are thoroughly cooked.

Avoid any raw fruits and vegetables that cannot be peeled.

Avoid raw shellfish.

Avoid unpasteurized dairy products.

Vaccination— recommended if you are planning to visit a country where typhoid fever is prevalent.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.